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BEING THE NARRATIVE OF BATTERY A OF THE 101st FIELD ARTILLERY

Page 94

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tion was greatly developed. The work on the gun pits, dugouts, and trenches had hardly more than started. The First Platoon, which had been established in E's emplacement, only stayed there two days, inasmuch as E Battery itself came back again. Yet on the very first day the Boche was lucky enough to score a direct hit on the first section gun pit at the very moment when the gun was firing. Davis Lawrence, who was acting gunner, was instantly killed, as was Clifford Sawyer. Norbert Rigby was fatally wounded and later died at the hospital. Sergeant Ben James was seriously wounded, while Martin and Fisher were both badly shaken up and were wounded slightly. Both Rigby and James were wonderfully brave and cheerful. Their courage was an inspiration to everyone in the Battery.

While at this so-called "St. Julien Position," named after the little village in the valley in front of us, Lt. MacNamee assumed command of the Battery. Lts. Shaw, Daizy, and Hommel joined us here. Major Perkins was our Battalion Commander, the Battalion consisting of A, C, and D Batteries.

After the first section was completely disorganized on April 21 and their gun destroyed, a composite gun crew was organized under Chandler as Chief of Section. They received a new piece to work with, which they named "Lil,"—soon to become famous. This piece was later put out of action in Belleau Woods.

Our stay here between April 20 and May 10 proved to be most comfortable and enjoyable. The weather was fine and warm. Our location was beautifully situated, overlooking the Woevre valley and plains be­

 

 

 

 

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